Izumo Shrine & Shimane Museum

OVERVIEW

Meander through perhaps the oldest shrine in Japan, a rare example of early Taisha-zukuri-style architecture that presents a window into the sacred past. The Grand Shrine of Izumo may be the country’s oldest such building as it is referred to in chronicles dating to the 7th century. Incredibly, the soaring main hall is only half the height of the original building. You will enter by passing under a shimenawa, a 1.5-ton twisted straw rope that denotes a sacred pure place. Inside, you will find numerous artifacts, especially swords. The treasure hall is also noteworthy as it is filled with rare paintings and documents. Still, the shrine’s primary attractions are its architecture and spirituality. You will also browse the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, whose collections trace Japan’s early history. The exhibits showcase hundreds of artifacts excavated locally and a massive pillar from the original Grand Shrine of Izumo that hints at its size.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the ancient Grand Shrine of Izumo, an official National Treasure.
• Recognize the shrine’s rare architecture and pass under a massive symbolic straw rope.
• Behold an extraordinary collection of swords and other artifacts.
• Learn more about Japan’s history by browsing the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.